Number Five, Live!

Number Five, Live!

(CFL.ca wire) — With the ink barely dry on his initial pro contract with the Calgary Stampeders, the fifth overall pick in the 2007 CFL Canadian Draft Justin Phillips joined CFL.ca on Thursday for an online chat. Read the transcript below.

alex18 says: Hi Justin !!! congrats on becoming the fifth overall pick. How does it feel to be the highest Golden Hawk to be selected on draft day since 1970 ?

Justin Phillips says: It’s an honour and a privilege to be taken so high in the draft. It speaks volumes about our program at Wilfrid Laurier.

alex18 says: How do you think the transition to the CFL will be ? So as a rookie what role do you expect to play on the Stampeders defence ?

Justin Phillips says: It will be a challenge to go against more elite athletes, but I embrace the challenge whatever role they ask me, whether it be on special teams or on defence.

alex18 says: Could you compare your playing style to another player in the CFL or NFL?

Justin Phillips says: I’ve got a lot of comparisons to my new teammate Scott Coe. I’ve also been compared to 3-4 rush linebackers in the NFL like Shawne Merriman or DeMarcus Ware.

alex18 says: What are your primary goals entering next year?

Justin Phillips says: My first goal is to make the team, then contribute whatever they ask, then hopefully become a starter as the season progresses.

Gutch says: Phillips!!! It’s Gutch…good to see you on here!

Justin Phillips says: I’m glad you checked it out!

alex18 says: Is there a certain player(s) on Stamps roster who you are excited to play with?

Justin Phillips says: I’m excited to meet everyone, and for the entire experience.

Gutch says: Phillips…how are your new teammates treating you as a rookie so far?

Justin Phillips says: I’ll find out June 3rd!

italia2 says: you were a high cfl pick, who was your agent, nd did you recieve any type of signing bonus?